The welfare state is unsustainable economically, socially and morally.

Thursday, April 06, 2006

Famous last words

Here is the low key, Evening Post, page 16, Dec 1, 1973 press clipping that announced the introduction of the DPB.

"The new benefit will provide all solo parents, irrespective of the cause of solo parenthood, with defined benefit criteria; rates and income exemptions," said Mr King (Minister of Social Welfare).

The next is the Hansard from 25 October, 1972, which shows Hon. L.R. Adams-Schneider, Minister of Social Welfare (soon to be replaced by a Labour government Minister as per above) detailing the expected cost of the DPB.

"The cost of the proposed domestic purposes benefit is estimated at up to $250,000 a year."

Adjusting for benefit inflation, that's around $4 million by today's standards.

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About Me

Lindsay Mitchell has been researching and commenting on welfare since 2001. Many of her articles have been published in mainstream media and she has appeared on radio,tv and before select committees discussing issues relating to welfare. Lindsay is also an artist who works under commission and exhibits at Wellington, New Zealand, galleries.